FIXED!!!
Bloody hell what a faff. So basically he did the timing chains and it was a bit better but the problem came back a day later. They then investigated and eventually found someone previously has put the fly wheel on the camshaft wrong. It wasn't mounted correctly and was missing a securing pin. This had caused damage to the wheel and camshaft (which he physically showed me) Subtle but with bit impact. A replacement wheel and cam shaft later and the car is perfect - and he only charged me an extra £99.00 for that so well happy with the service he's provided.
I am about ready to go and murder the bugger I bought it off though - I reckon he's done that himself as a botch job!
Ah at least she's back and not on fire!
Thanks for the input chaps.